10 Crucial Features Google, Verizon Must Build into a Tablet PC

News Analysis: Google and Verizon are reportedly teaming up to deliver a tablet that will compete with the iPad. Although neither company has offered details, here are some of the features that simply must find their way into any conceivable Google-Verizon tablet PC.

Apple's iPad is the only major tablet currently on store shelves. And unfortunately for Google (and Verizon Wireless), it's a device that has set the standard in the tablet market. Worst of all, a growing number of consumers-more than 1 million at last count-are quickly realizing that if they want touch functionality in a device that's bigger than an iPhone or a Nexus One, they need an iPad.

Once the Google-Verizon tablet comes out, that might change. But the only chance of users opting for that tablet over an iPad will come if the new product boasts the features consumers really want.

That's why we've decided to identify some features that must make their way to the tablet from Google and Verizon Wireless.

Let's take a look:

1. Comparable touch control

The iPad's touch screen has made it the success it is today. Tapping around the display is enjoyable, and controlling movement is unparalleled in the space. If Google and Verizon want their tablet to be successful, they must deliver touch control that can compete on every level with the iPad. Remember the BlackBerry Storm? Its touch interface and control was so poor, it didn't even come close to matching the iPhone's sales figures. Apple has set a standard for touch screens in the market, and Google must equal or surpass that standard. 2. Affordability

The iPad is expensive. For the average home user who simply wants to be more productive on the couch, buying a cheap notebook or even a netbook instead of an iPad isn't such a bad idea. That said, only Apple can get away with selling a tablet for that price. Google and Verizon can't. That's why the companies need to beat the iPad on price. Unfortunately for them, $50 won't cut it. For the device to be successful, at least a $100 price difference is required. It also wouldn't hurt if Verizon offered cheaper data plans than those from AT&T. 3. Flash support

The debate over Flash on the iPad is a heated one. And although Adobe's standard has several inherent issues that could cause devices harm, it's still operating the vast majority of videos and games on the Web. Whether Apple wants to admit it or not, the iPad browsing experience has been hobbled somewhat by the lack of Flash. Users can't always see Web content, and playing games is practically impossible without downloading titles from the App Store. If Google can offer Flash, it would eliminate its need to ramp up app production right away. It would also help it deliver a better browsing experience. 4. Google's core services (for free)

In order to use iWork on the iPad, owners need to dole out $10 per application. That's not the end of the world, but it's not ideal either. Google can use that issue to its advantage by offering its Docs service for free. Users would be able to edit documents, create presentations and consult spreadsheets from within the tablet without having to pay a dime to do it. The offering would not only help it with its battle against the iPad, but it could also help Google increase market share as it attempts to take on Microsoft Office. It's a win-win for the search giant.

Don Reisinger is a freelance technology columnist. He started writing about technology for Ziff-Davis' Gearlog.com. Since then, he has written extremely popular columns for CNET.com, Computerworld, InformationWeek, and others. He has appeared numerous times on national television to share his expertise with viewers. You can follow his every move at http://twitter.com/donreisinger.